Horseshoe Ladybird - Clitostethus arcuatus

A tiny ladybird with a length of only 1.2 to 1.5 mm.  It is dark brown with a pale cream horseshoe-shaped mark in the centre of the elytra.  The legs are creamy brown in colour.

Although the species is quite distinctive, it is very uncommon in our area so detailed photographic evidence is required. Note the size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed.

Its host plant is Ivy and it can be found by sweeping Ivy clad trees and fences etc.

Usually found from late spring to autumn.

It overwinters in bark crevices and under bark.

It appears to be widespread in the southern half of Britain, but is probably grossly under recorded due to its small size.

Rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.  The Sapcote record of 2020 was the first record of this species in VC55 since 1872.